Vizianagaram, Aug. 1 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed heartfelt gratitude to the artisans of Andhra Pradesh after receiving an exquisitely handcrafted Bobbili Ekanda Veena.

The Prime Minister was presented with the traditional instrument during his visit to Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district to inaugurate the Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport in Bhogapuram.

In an X post, PM Modi lauded the Andhra Pradesh artisans for preserving Andhra Pradesh's musical legacy.

"Delighted to receive the exquisitely handcrafted Bobbili Ekanda Veena in Bhogapuram. The Veena has a special place in India's musical traditions. It embodies the skills of Andhra Pradesh's artisans. My compliments to them for preserving the culture...